Bridges of Hope student bridge building contest to be judged Sunday

To raise awareness of their mission to connect struggling local families with the resources that can help them, Bridges of Hope launched an area youth bridge building contest. The contest is in conjunction with ISD 181 fifth-grade students, their teachers and generous sponsors.

As part of their curriculum, students at Forestview Middle School built bridges from popsicle sticks in class. Local sponsors from construction and design firms donated their time to assist students with their bridges. Volunteers from Nor-Son, SEH, Northway Construction and Widseth-Smith-Nolting put in nearly 20 hours of volunteer classroom time and contributed funds for supplies.

Following strength tests and preliminary aesthetic judging by school administrators, select bridge finalists will go on to compete for prizes in the final contest held Sunday at the Arboretum in Brainerd. First-place winners will receive a trophy and a Reichert limo ride to Rafferty’s for a pizza lunch; second-place wins two Arrowwood Lodge waterpark passes and a trophy; and third wins a Cherry Berry gift certificate and trophy. All trophies donated by Winners Trophy & Engraving.

The contest is scheduled for 1-4 p.m. and will include activities for children, including a bouncy castle, relays and games, art projects and an appearance from the Wendy’s “Frosty” character. Churchyard Grass, a local bluegrass band, will perform from 1-2 p.m.

Bridges of Hope invites the community to the Arboretum to experience the contest and learn more about their community mission. Attendees will have the opportunity to watch the Strength Competition and vote for their favorite bridge in the Aesthetic Category. The event kicks off Bridges of Hope’s fall fundraising season and donations are welcome. There is no charge for attending.

Since 2002, Bridges of Hope has operated as a faith-based 501c3 non-profit organization that connects families in crisis with the community assets they need. They rely upon donations, volunteerism and proceeds raised by Common Goods, the organization’s thrift store located on Highway 371. For more information about Bridges of Hope, visit BridgesOfHopeMN.org.

I've worked at the Brainerd Dispatch with various duties since Dec. 7, 1983. Starting off as an Ad Designer and currently Director of Audience Development. The Dispatch has been an interesting and challenging place to work. I'm fortunate to have made many friends, both co-workers and customers.